When choosing the ideal antenna to install when you’re away from the shack, flexibility matters. What works in one location may not be ideal if set up in another spot. This is particularly important for emergency operations and survival communications, where the more options you have for maximizing transmitting and receiving, the better. In short, portable operating is not a one-size-fits-all proposition when it comes to antennas.
Who better than Chameleon Antenna to come up with a solution that’s adaptable to your needs. Like the lizard that can change color at will, Chameleon’s MPAS (Modular Portable Antenna System) allows Hams in the field to deploy and configure an antenna in a variety of ways based on the operator’s objectives and location. Options include:
- Vertical
- Horizontal
- Sloper
- Inverted V
- Inverted L
- NVIS
- Balcony
- Vehicle (Stationary)
- Man-Pack
The MPAS Portable HF Backpack Antenna System (CHA-MPAS-2-0) is designed for EMCOMM, camping, hiking, biking, or any kind of portable operating. The system covers HF and 6 meters and can handle up to 100W SSB or 50W CW. It comes with the Chameleon Hybrid-Micro matching unit and portable base, 113 inch collapsible whip antenna, 105.5 inch antenna extension, 50 foot coaxial cable with RFI choke, in-ground antenna mount, military-style olive green backpack, stainless steel hardware, 75 feet of antenna wire, and 25 feet of counterpoise wire to support a range of configurations.
Billed as the “little brother” of the MPAS-2-0, the new MPAS LITE, also available from DX Engineering, provides HF and 6 meter coverage (100W SSB or 50W CW) and similar flexibility for less cost than the MPAS-2-0. The system includes:
- Chameleon Hybrid-Micro matching unit and portable base
- 60 feet of antenna wire
- 17 foot collapsible stainless steel whip antenna
- 50 foot coaxial cable with RFI choke
- Stainless steel spike mount (for attaching the Hybrid HF antenna base and a counterpoise)
- Stainless steel hardware
Find MPAS Portable Antenna Systems and other Chameleon products at DXEngineering.com, including F-Loop Portable Antennas, EMCOMM-III Portable HF Antennas, NVIS HF Antenna Base and Elements, and more.
